Sometimes, you just need to carpe diem and go on an adventure. There are endless opportunities for adventures here in The Beaver State, but our favorite might just be a good, old-fashioned scenic drive. You can go at a moment's notice, and all you need is a tank of gas and a sense of adventure. We have just the one in mind: the Three Capes Scenic Loop. This 40-mile drive is easy to tackle in a day, providing lots of time to stop and enjoy the views and landmarks you'll pass along the route. The Three Capes Scenic Route is one of the best ways to experience the Oregon Coast and will leave you with a newfound appreciation for our beautiful state.
This scenic drive begins at U.S. 101 in Tillamook, where you'll head northwest toward Cape Meares.
The first "cape" of the Three Capes Scenic Loop, Cape Meares is an outcrop at the southern end of Tillamook Bay. It's home to the eponymous state park and historic lighthouse.
In Cape Meares, you'll also find the Octopus Tree, a contorted Sitka spruce that looks like something from a fairy tale!
After passing through this enchanted forest, the route continues past Three Arch Rocks National Wildlife Refuge, Oregon's first and most unique natural sanctuary.
The journey continues through Oceanside, a sleepy coastal community built on a steep bluff overlooking the Pacific.
The Three Capes Scenic Route is well-marked, and winds through several charming towns on the Ocean Coast, including Netarts Bay.
Cape Lookout State Park is the second of this drive's titular capes; the park is a favorite for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and photographers.
Last but certainly not least, Cape Kiwanda is the smallest of the three capes along the Three Capes Scenic Route, but what it lacks in size it more than makes up for in beauty. From this majestic cape, you'll see some of the state’s wildest surf battering the sandstone headland.
Cape Kiwanda is definitely a place you'll want to stop and explore. Its sand dunes are incredible, as are the views (you'll even see the "other" Haystack Rock here.)
The 40-mile scenic drive ends in Pacific City, where the sunsets are positively perfect.
The best part about scenic drives is that the whole point is slowing down to enjoy the journey.
Because here in Oregon, the journey is always extraordinary.
Have you driven the Three Capes Scenic Loop before? Isn't it absolutely perfect? You can view a map of this 40-mile drive here.
Really, the only way to make this scenic drive better would be the addition of delicious car snacks. Luckily for you, we know a place that's located right at the start of this scenic drive, and they happen to serve the best cheese curds and milkshakes around!
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